25 of the Best Zika-Free Beach Destinations

With all the news headlines and warnings about the Zika virus, you may think there aren’t many Zika-free destinations left. The good news is that while Zika is a risk in many countries, there are still many parts of the Caribbean, South America and the rest of the world that have no reported active transmission of the virus.

Our list of 20 destinations (including a couple in Canada) shows that there are lots of places were you can hit the beach without fear.

Note these destinations were Zika-free as of October 5, 2016. For the current status on any country, check the CDC Zika website. Also note that Zika can be sexually transmitted by someone with the virus in a non-Zika environment. So be careful!

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Bermuda

Bermuda is close and Zika-free. Conde Nast Traveler's favourite reasons to visit include shopping, pink sand beaches and outstanding snorkelling and diving.

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Uruguay

According to Conde Nast Traveler, Uruguay is a great South American destination. There's the gaucho/cowboy culture not to mention the cultural attractions and the massive beach near the capital Montevideo. While Uruguay hasn't reported any past or current Zika virus transmission, the mosquito that can spread the virus exists in parts of Uruguay. Travelers are encouraged to do what they can to prevent mosquito bites.

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Malta

There's no current travel advisory for Canadians who wish to explore the beautiful island of Malta. A unique central Mediterranean getaway awaits.

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4. Chile

Another Zika-free Conde Nast Traveler pick is Chile. You'll find skiing, vibrant cities, lush vineyards and, if you journey a little farther, Easter Island.

In addition to being Zika-free, there are parts of Chile that make for a cheap destination for Canadians this winter.

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Hawaii

Zika is not currently circulating in Hawaii. Newlyweds hoping to honeymoon here can plan to island hop and truly enjoy the gorgeous, Zika-free beaches.

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California

No local mosquito-borne Zika virus cases have been reported in Cali (just cases of travellers returning with Zika). So it's safe to head to The Golden State if you want some beach time or want to take the kids to Disneyland.

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Mallorca, Spain

You won't run out of beaches to choose from when visiting Mallorca. Our fall (and spring) happen to be the best times of the year to visit!

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x. The Hamptons

There have been cases in the United States, but none in New York recently. The Hamptons is full of beaches, bars, restaurants and shops and is a great place for a summer holiday.

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Seychelles

Home to gorgeous beaches, rare animals and mountain rain forests, Seychelles is a great, safe pick. Don't miss the beach at Anse Source d'Argent, a white-sand beach surrounded by emerald water and naturally sculpted granite boulders.

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x. Bora Bora

A spot most people dream of visiting at least once in their lives, Bora Bora is known for its scuba diving, luxury resorts and bungalows on stilts over the water. This romantic island's turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef will steal your heart. And though it's currently Zika-free, there has been a history of transmission. it should be noted that travelers should prevent mosquito bites as a dengue outbreak was reported back in September for those heading to French Polynesia.

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Cyprus

Located in the eastern Med, Cyprus is not only Zika-free, it can be a bargain. There are beaches, of course. But there's also spectacular scenery inland. The island is divided between the Greek south and Turkish north, but tensions have eased enough so that you can journey across the dividing line to see how the other half lives.

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Australia

Just like Canada, Australia isn't a country you visit in a week — there are many hidden gems you have to visit across the land down under. If you're going to make the journey, try to go for as long as possible. If it's beaches you're after, then head to the Gold Coast, which is also home to the famous Surfers Paradise.

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New Zealand

New Zealand is another country that deserves more than a week or two of your time, especially if you want to really explore both the North and South Islands. Beyond the beaches, New Zealand offers unlimited options. You can have a different adventure every day.

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Morocco

North Africa, with its hot desert climate, is free of any Zika concerns. There's the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, which offers a mix of the Sahara and the Mediterranean but for Morocco's best beaches, you'll have to venture a little further out. Morocco is a great, underrated travel spot that mixes the Sahara and the Mediterranean. You can't go wrong with Sidi Ifni, filled with arts and culture and captivating beaches, but if surfing's more your style, the fishing village of Taghazout will charm you.

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Iceland

Not all beaches have to be tropical and if you're keen to avoid Zika, then Iceland makes a unique holiday spot. There are plenty of airfare bargains these days, and you can even do a multi-day layover if you're jetting to Europe.

Explore active volcanoes, clamber around ice caves or rent a car and check out Iceland's surprisingly diverse landscape.

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Japan

That's Japan? You bet! In addition to the great food, buzzing cities and famous mountains, you'll also find beautiful clear waters to snorkel in Okinawa. Surprise!

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Croatia

If you're looking to explore the Mediterranean as it once was, Croatia is a good spot to do it. Fabulous beaches, spectacular old world cities and glorious views around every corner make this a remarkable destination winter or summer. If you're worried about the calories, explore the country by bike!

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Portugal

Portugal is an affordable and diverse destination. Spend some time on the golden beaches of the Algarve, but don't miss Lisbon's nightlife or watching surfers take on some of the world's largest waves along Portugal's Silver Coast.

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Prince Edward Island

There haven't been any local cases of Zika in Canada either. If you're looking for a beach to visit, you've likely got one close by. But if you feel like exploring the country, the beaches of Prince Edward Island are to well worth visiting.

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Vancouver Island

If you happen to be on the other side of the country, the west coast of Vancouver Island offers some of the best beaches in the world. We suggest Chesterman and Long Beach, both near Tofino.

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20. Tahiti

Whether you want to hide-out in your private beach hut, or explore a stunning waterfall or lagoon, the largest island in French Polynesia is fair game.

For more, don't miss the best Zika-free destinations that go beyond the beach.

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xSouth Africa

The southernmost tip of the continent is not only an inexpensive place to visit but it offers an abundance of gorgeous beaches which are all Zika-free. Thompson's Bay in Ballito, about 40 minutes north of Durban, is ideal for swimming thanks to the calm waters the scenic cove provides. The resort town of Umhlanga is a more upscale and still safe for swimming, while Victoria Bay is the spot for surfing.

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Arabian peninsula is Zika-free, so the UAE is your oyster. Dubai is a good choice if you want a mix of super-modern and super-tropical (and super-romantic), that is if you can handle the heat. The crystal-clear waters of Jumeirah Beach will give you some relief.

People swimming and playing at Mount Lavinia Beach near Colombo, Sri Lanka

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x Sri Lanka

While India and many other countries in South Asia are not ideal for avoiding Zika, the island nation of Sri Lanka will give you peace of mind. The west coast of the country — from the capital, Colombo, to the large resort hotels of Kalutara, Bentota, Beruwala and Negombo — is the most developed and most Westernized, ideal for tourists who need some sun with a little culture thrown in. It's also a place where you can get the most bang for your buck.

Two camels walking along beach dotted with palm trees

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xOman

A short flight from the capital of Muscat will find you in Salalah, which is made up white-sand beaches and palm trees and is surrounded by the Dhofar Mountains. It's busiest during July and August but the rest of the year, it still boasts pleasant temperatures and blue skies. Hmm, just another reason Oman is a must-visit.